I joined Cisco in September and it took me about a month to realize I made a mistake. Since then, that realization has been confirmed multiple times. I have never stressed about work more than I have in the last five months. Some of the expectations are downright unreasonable. I also didn't expect to have to worry about layoffs so soon into new employment. I wish I could go back, but it's too late, the damage has been done.
11 replies (most recent on top)
This is true, they keep trying to put me on but I won’t take any SSRI
I regretted joining Cisco as well and welcomed being laid off. I came from another big tech company and didn’t realize how antiquated Cisco is - like going back in time.
If you are young , go for a company which offers growth and options /rsu
It will also be working your bu-t off but the chance of high reward is there.
Cisco is at best status quo .
The first 6-8 months for me was maybe the worst of my life. No training and high expectations. However, once you get the hang of it, you will be fine.
The layoffs are a real concern. You could be a high performer and still get laid off. With that being, I highly suggest you network your bu-t off if you want to stay long term at Cisco. Chances are good that you will one day be affected by a layoff. But if you have connections, you should be fine.
Cisco sucks. Talent comes to die at Cisco. But not the end of the world for you. If you think it's a mistake, then correct that mistake. Get out! I certainly did. Keep your head down and look for another job. Competitors are all hiring - PAN, Fortinet, VMware - yes, even VMW is better than Cisco despite getting sold. Pay is a lot better. You get the politics wherever you go, but at least your bank account will look healthier. Good luck.
You're not the only one. Anyone who joined Cisco from other tech companies soon get so shocked to find how low a level this company is, the org and mgmt being composed by a bunch of extremely long long tenured 15 yr 20 yr leaders and managers who know nothing about anything who have no value at other companies, boasting themselves being respected by new grads and young childish yes-man staff who also know nothing. That's the reality. This is a worldwide common culture and envirnmt at Cisco.
If you cant manage WLB at Cisco; you won't be able to anywhere else.
All new hires are overwhelmed when coming to Cisco between the size of the company, all the tools we use and the constant red tape we have to deal with. You are in control of your life and decisions; make the right one for yourself.
The sooner you realize leadership isn't really looking out for anyone except themselves, the happier you will be. Doesn't matter what company it is. People have had it for companies that don't look out for their workers. No where is safe. The sooner we all realize this the better. The government isn't here to look out for you. Companies aren't going to look out for you. Do the bare minimum to get by; if you have extra energy to burn and turn that into work product; all you are doing anyore is lining someone else's pocket. You cannot build a safe place here at this company, or any other. Look at it like survival in nature.
I lowered my expectations of the government, companies, and work after I was LR'd. I will still work but expect nothing more than the pay based on results. I don't expect loyalty.
undo your own mistake, find a new job if you can
Go to the Doctor and get some meds. You'd be amazed how many people at Cisco are on lots and lots of meds to deal with the anxiety. Ask around.